Why are Finns still so happy about a hockey match in 1995?

25 years ago Finland won Sweden and became the ice hockey world champions. Why do finns keep returning to this happening also known as Globen-95? Finland has won things later on as well, but those wins were not made into a movie for example.

The main reason is the darker societal and economic landscape in the beginning of the '90s. Finnish economy had overheated throughout 1980's causing a ripe bubble by the 1990's. The fall of Soviet Union in 1991 had a huge impact for Finnish export industry and therefore national economy. Finnish mark was devaluated which added to the misery.

Massive backruptcy wave caused entrepreneurs to lose everything. Relatives and friends who backed business loans also lost and many were left with excruciating debt. Unemployment was epidemic at 17%.

Suicide rates soared and kids at famous Finnish public schools had to put their rubbers in half so there would be enough for everyone. Alcoholism and other social problems were also strongly part of the situation. 

In 1994 finns had a referendum over EU-membership. The question divided the nation: 56,9% voted in favor of EU and the support was mainly from the southern urban areas. It highlighted the division between peripheral landscapes and growing cities. Finland joined in the beginning of 1995.

The Finnish ice hockey team Leijonat had some smaller wins but they had never made it to world champion. Because of some situation in the NHL, Finland could not use their NHL-players so the team was full of young promises but lacking experience. I guess people didn't have too high expectations.

Now it's imperative to understand that Finland and Sweden have a special relationship. They are rivals like siblings, always picking on each other and sports is the worst. Ofcourse we also support each other in tight spots like for example in politics, but thats another story.

Against this background we can see why Globen-95 was such a big deal in Finland. Somehow after years of absolute devastation Finland was suddenly the World Champion. Small, bankrupt Finland was THE BEST IN THE WORLD in SOMETHING. And on top of it all, FINLAND WON SWEDEN, IN SWEDEN, WITH A SWEDISH COACH. It was magical.

The Champions. Source: Leijonat.com

Every finn, interested in ice hockey or not, felt it. It was a national euforia spreading over the country, bringing everyone together regardless of political opinions or societal status. Leijonat recorded music, met the President in the presidential residence and appeared in numerous charity events. Books were written and the teams journey to victory was even made into a movie. 

Globen-95 was a turning point in Finnish hearts and minds. It was a generation experience that created much needed hope, energy and unification within the nation. The emotional and psychological process was larger than just hockey. This is why this match is so fondly remembered among the finns.

The movie poster. Source: Wikipedia